Crossbody Travel Bags vs. Backpacks: Which One Is Better for Travel?
When packing for a trip, choosing the right bag can make all the difference in how comfortable, secure, and organized you feel on the go. Two of the most popular options for travelers are crossbody travel bags and backpacks—but which one is the best choice for you?
The answer depends on your travel style, destination, and what you need to carry. In this guide, we’ll compare crossbody travel purses and backpacks, weighing the pros and cons of each so you can confidently decide which one suits your next adventure.
Why Your Travel Bag Matters
A well-chosen travel purse or bag should:
✔️ Keep Your Essentials Secure – Preventing theft is crucial, especially in crowded tourist areas. (Check out 3 Travel Safety Tips Every Woman Should Know)
✔️ Be Comfortable to Carry – Whether you're sightseeing or rushing through an airport, your bag should feel good on your body.
✔️ Stay Organized – The best travel bags help you quickly access your passport, wallet, and other must-haves. (Read: How to Choose the Best Crossbody Bag for Travel So You Stay Organized on the Go)
✔️ Match Your Travel Needs – A short city break, a backpacking trip, and a work-related journey all require different types of bags.
Now, let’s dive into how crossbody bags and backpacks compare.
Crossbody Travel Bags: The Best Choice for Convenience and Security
A crossbody travel bag is a purse or handbag designed to be worn across your body, typically resting on one side of your hip. Many travelers prefer crossbody travel purses for their easy access and security features.
✅ Pros of Crossbody Travel Bags
🔹 Better Security – Since a crossbody travel purse stays in front of your body, it’s harder for pickpockets to access. Many also come with anti-theft features like RFID-blocking technology, lockable zippers, and slash-resistant straps. (Read: 5 Must-Have Features in a Crossbody Travel Purse for Women)
🔹 Easy to Access – Need to grab your passport or phone quickly? Unlike a backpack, a crossbody travel handbag allows you to reach your essentials without taking it off.
🔹 Lightweight and Stylish – A great crossbody bag for travel is compact and doesn't weigh you down. Plus, crossbody handbags for women come in stylish designs that complement any outfit. (Check out: The Travel Purse That Solo Women Travelers Swear By)
🔹 Perfect for Urban Travel – If you’re exploring cities, hopping on public transport, or visiting museums, a crossbody travel purse is more practical than a bulky backpack.
🔹 Less Likely to Be Targeted by Thieves – Many cities and public transport systems prohibit large backpacks due to security concerns. A travel purse with anti-theft design keeps your valuables safe without drawing attention.
❌ Cons of Crossbody Travel Bags
🚫 Limited Space – If you need to carry a lot of items (such as a laptop, water bottle, or camera), a crossbody travel bag might not have enough room.
🚫 Can Cause Shoulder Strain – A poorly designed crossbody bag for women can put pressure on one shoulder over time. Choosing an adjustable strap and lightweight materials can help.
🚫 Not Ideal for Long Outdoor Adventures – If you're hiking, biking, or carrying gear for a full-day trip, a backpack might be a better choice.
Backpacks: The Best Choice for Carrying More & Outdoor Travel
A backpack is often the go-to choice for travelers who need to carry more than just the essentials. Whether it’s a daypack for hiking or a carry-on backpack for flights, this type of bag offers more storage and weight distribution.
✅ Pros of Backpacks
🎒 More Storage Capacity – A backpack is better if you need to carry a laptop, extra clothes, snacks, or camera equipment.
🎒 Even Weight Distribution – With two straps, a backpack balances weight across your shoulders and back, making it more comfortable for long wear.
🎒 Hands-Free Travel – While a crossbody bag for travel keeps essentials accessible, a backpack leaves both hands free for activities like hiking, cycling, or carrying luggage.
🎒 Better for Outdoor Adventures – If you’re trekking, camping, or doing day trips that require extra gear, a backpack is a smarter choice than a crossbody handbag.
🎒 Some Backpacks Have Anti-Theft Features – While crossbody anti-theft purses are more common, some backpacks now come with hidden zippers, lockable compartments, and RFID-blocking pockets for added security.
🎒 Great for Business Travelers – A sleek, minimalist backpack can be an excellent choice for business travelers who need to carry a laptop, documents, and work essentials while still looking professional. Unlike bulky hiking backpacks, a modern travel backpack blends security with style, making it ideal for work trips, airport travel, and meetings on the go.
❌ Cons of Backpacks
🚫 Harder to Access Your Items Quickly – Unlike a crossbody bag women’s travel purse, which sits at your side, a backpack needs to be removed to grab your wallet, passport, or phone.
🚫 More Likely to Be Targeted by Thieves – Pickpockets often go for backpacks in crowded areas since they’re worn on your back and harder to monitor.
🚫 Not Always Allowed in Museums or Public Places – Many tourist attractions, including museums and historical sites, require visitors to check their backpacks before entry.
🚫 Can Be Bulky and Heavy – Carrying a full backpack for hours can cause fatigue, especially in hot weather.
🚫 Not Ideal for Fashion-Conscious Travelers – If you want a sleek and stylish look, a crossbody travel handbag often looks better than a bulky backpack.
Crossbody Travel Bags vs. Backpacks: Quick Comparison Based on Your Travel Style
Here’s a quick breakdown based on your travel needs:
| Travel Style | Best Bag Choice |
|---|---|
| City travel & sightseeing | ✅ Crossbody Travel Purse – Easy access, stylish, and safer in crowded areas. |
| Adventure travel & hiking | ✅ Backpack – More storage, better weight distribution for long treks. |
| Short weekend trips | ✅ Crossbody Travel Handbag – Light, compact, and perfect for daily essentials. |
| Digital nomad travel | ✅ Backpack – If carrying a laptop and tech gear, a backpack is more practical. |
| Airport & transit travel | ✅ Crossbody Travel Purse – Keeps passport, tickets, and money easily accessible. |
| Fashion-conscious travel | ✅ Crossbody Handbag for Women – Stylish and functional for city trips. |
| Maximized security | ✅ Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag – RFID-blocking, lockable zippers, and slash-resistant straps keep valuables safe. |
| Business travel | ✅ Sleek, minimalist backpack – Professional, spacious enough for a laptop, and comfortable for long commutes. |
So... Which One Is Better for Travel?
💡 If you’re a light traveler exploring cities, museums, or markets, a crossbody travel bag like the Thafael sleek crossbody is the best choice for security, accessibility, and style. I designed it for women like me — city explorers, and anyone who wants to look elegant while staying safe.
Need more help choosing? Don’t miss our in-depth post: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Anti-Theft Bag
💡 If you’re carrying more items or heading out on long hikes, a backpack is the smarter option for comfort and storage space.
💡 Business traveler? A sleek anti-theft backpack is an excellent choice for carrying your laptop, tech, and documents while maintaining a professional look.
Ready for Your Next Trip?
If you’re looking for a sleek anti-theft bag that keeps your essentials safe while looking effortlessly elegant, click here to explore the Thafael Crossbody Travel Bag.
Which one do you prefer for travel—crossbody bags or backpacks?
Let us know in the comments! 😊✈️
Arielle
FAQs
Are crossbody bags better than backpacks for city travel? Yes. Crossbody bags are safer from pickpockets and easier to access in busy urban areas.
What are the best bags for travel security? Anti-theft crossbody bags with lockable zippers, slash-proof straps and lining, and RFID-blocking pockets.
Can I wear a backpack into museums in Europe? Often no. Many museums require backpacks to be checked. Crossbody purses are typically allowed.
Which is more comfortable for all-day wear? Backpacks distribute weight better. But a well-designed, lightweight crossbody with wide straps also works beautifully for all-day city exploring.
Can a crossbody bag fit my travel essentials? Yes—as long as it can fit your passport, wallet, phone, power bank, keys, sunglasses.
Is a crossbody bag safer than a backpack? Generally yes. Crossbody bags (especially if they're antitheft) worn at the front are harder for thieves to access and allow you to keep an eye on your valuables.
